Archive of Dave Says - Weekly Financial Blog

• Think with Your Head (and a Calculator), not Your Heart
  If it’s not a traditional lease and offers real value with no hidden catches, it may work—but always do the math and read the fine print first.... more
• You Still Need a Will
  Even with few assets, a simple will and healthcare directive are wise steps—they protect your wishes and ease the burden on loved ones if the worst happens.... more
• He’s Going to Need You in His Life
  Focus on love and support—skip the new car and buy a safe, used one with cash. Most importantly, stay present and involved in your son’s life.... more
• Wealth Magnifies What’s Already There
  Wealth reveals character—raise wise, grounded kids who honor God, and your legacy will bless them far beyond any dollar amount you choose to leave.... more
• Determination and Hard Work
  Stay smart and focused—avoid get-rich-quick scams, choose honest work, and use your talents to boost income and crush debt faster. You’ve got this!... more
• Preparing for the Future
  In tough times, help her prepare: secure life insurance, create a will, organize documents, and ensure her kids’ future is in loving, trusted hands.... more
• Help, Don’t Enable
  Help if needed, but don’t enable bad habits—get the full story first, stay united as a couple, and let your wife lead the conversation with her parents.... more
• Resolution or Determination? Make 2025 the Year You Gain Control of Your Money
  Take control of your money in 2025—start budgeting, follow the debt snowball plan, and crush your credit card debt once and for all!... more
• It’s Not the Answer
  Planning ahead for Christmas expenses avoids debt and stress. Budget monthly, save early, and enjoy a debt-free holiday without financial regret in January.... more
• She’ll Be Just Fine
  Your mom is financially stable, and paying off her mortgage makes sense. With no house payment, she’ll need less income and can enjoy greater peace of mind.... more
• Safe and Easily Accessible
  Sell the stock and keep your emergency fund liquid. Stability matters more than market risk. Then, resume 401(k) contributions to secure your future.... more
• Emergency Fund for Teens?
  A teen should save three months’ worth of car expenses for emergencies. It builds responsibility and smart financial habits for the future.... more
• Approach it Like a Sales Call
  Follow up confidently but not pushily. Ask for a timeline, show enthusiasm, and treat it like a sales call—demonstrating the skills they seek.... more
• Honor Your Obligations
  Even small payments show effort and build discipline. Prioritize necessities, pay what you can, and stick to a budget—your finances will improve.... more
• The Game’s Not for Everyone
  Colin, don’t risk your retirement for a rental. Save up, buy with cash, and start small to see if being a landlord is truly right for you.... more
• Hitting Your Goals Means Planning Your Goals
  Rae, set specific, measurable goals with a deadline, make them your own, write them down, and stay focused. Small steps daily will lead to success!... more
• Compromises Are Part of Marriage
  Freddie, open communication is key. Discuss your concerns honestly, listen to her feelings, and consider counseling to find a solution together.... more
• A Roadmap to Financial Peace
  Stay focused, Miles! Follow the Baby Steps, stay disciplined, and you’ll achieve financial freedom. You’ve got this—your journey to financial peace starts now!... more
• Your Income is the Key
  Tackle student loans in Baby Step 2. Live on a strict budget, focus intensely, and use every dollar possible to pay them off quickly!... more
• My Best Piece of Advice?
  Settle with the collection agency based on your finances. The creditor may not be paid directly. Best advice: stop using credit cards altogether!... more
• Keep a Boundary in Place
  Keep savings separate to avoid blurring lines with checking. Separate accounts help protect your emergency fund from unnecessary spending.... more
• When You Hit Rock Bottom
  Take responsibility, get 2-3 jobs, live on a strict budget, and repay debts. Prioritize integrity and seek support from a good community or church.... more
• Imitate Successful Behavior
  Wait to buy a nicer, slightly used car with cash after completing Baby Step 3. Avoid new cars unless your net worth exceeds $1M.... more
• Can They Handle It?
  Including teens in budget discussions teaches them valuable money skills without overwhelming them. Keep it positive and age-appropriate!... more
• A Different Situation Than Most
  Go ahead with your honeymoon! You’re financially stable, and your fiancé’s job prospects are strong. Congrats on your wedding—enjoy!... more
• Be Gentle, but Don’t Fund Financial Irresponsibility
  Charles, stop bailing her out. Support her in learning better money habits, but enabling her overspending only worsens the problem.... more
• Seeing Things in a Different Way
  Allison, try budgeting as a team. It’s a powerful tool to reach goals together, and small sacrifices now can lead to exciting possibilities later!... more